A source of information to help you keep fit, prevent injuries from happening, and help you with therapies to get you better. Written by Dr. Derek Vinge at Fit Chiropractic in Courtenay, BC. He is a Canadian board certified chiropractor that is a qualified provider of Active Release Technique (A.R.T.) and Graston Instrument Assisted soft-tissue technique.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Foot pain getting you down?

Plantar Fascitis

Chronic and problematic foot pain is often caused by incorrect footwear, one time over-exertion or even overuse. It is an inflammation or irritation of the connective tissue on the bottom of the foot that supports the arch. The main and most severe pain is felt in the heel and can often linger from weeks to months. The first few steps in the morning are often the most painful. Plantar fascitis (or fasciosis) injury may cause debilitating pain that suddenly can increased with new shoes, standing for long periods on hard surface, or increasing your walking or running distance too quickly.

Therapy at our clinic will involve chiropractic manipulation of the tarsal bones due to many restrictions in motion that appear with this condition. The soft tissue around the tender areas will be released using Graston® therapy and Active Release Therapy (A.R.T.®). If this is a severe progression of PF it is suggested to have custom foot orthotics made to support the arch of your foot. We can mold these in-clinic and have them ready within two weeks. Another option is purchasing neutral arch supports from your local running store, I recommend SuperFeet or similar brand. Robinson's Outdoor store in Victoria has an excellent supply.

Research shows for complete resolve this treatment should be adhered to consistently 2-3x/week for 4-6 weeks, then 1x/week for 4 weeks then as needed. Avoid steroid injections; these may lead to necrosis and weakening of the connective tissue and cause further damage. Very good success rates in resolving this condition are found with adhering to this treatment plan!

Take Home in addition to therapy:

Stretch calf and leg muscles often (2-3x/day) Hold for 30 seconds.

Roll foot with hard ball (tennis/golf ball) - for up to 60 seconds/day. See image below.

Avoid standing for long periods on concrete or hard floor

Other options:

A night splint to stretch the calf muscle and plantar fascia to be worn at night may be a possibility to help with therapy. We can make a solid casting for you in-office for you to wear. The other option is purchasing a Strassburg sock.